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BIRTH-DAY GATHERING. 




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NINETIETH 



BIRTH-DAY GATHERING, 



REV. CHARLES CLEVELAND. 



JUNE 21, 1862. 



BOSTON: 

PRINTED BY T. R. MARVIN & SON. 

1862. 







&u 



INTRODUCTORY NOTE. 




uncommon has been the occa- 
sion for preparing the few follow- 
ing pages, and preserving the 
memory of the subject which calls for 
them, that the subscriber willingly yields 
to the wish of his aged friend and profes- 
sional brother, in offering a very brief 
preface. 

We should, for instance, have thought 
that so much exposure to the variations 
of weather, so much excitement of sym- 
pathy with the afflicted, and so much 
anxiety and labor to relieve their wants, 



as have exercised our benevolent mis- 
sionary, would have proved too severe a 
pressure on the physical powers, and 
tended to shorten life. But we have seen 
it protracted to an unusual length, and 
yet its spirit is not exhausted. 

One great reason of this, second how- 
ever to the Divine protection, support and 
blessing, of which indeed it is a part, 
may be found in the species of service 
itself. " The merciful man doeth good 
to his own soul." Prov. xi. 17. Were 
the wretchedness he encounters to be be- 
yond his power of relief, the difference 
would be great ; but the ability to relieve, 
however furnished, and the perception 
and sight of the happy effect produced— 
together with a prevailing and intelli- 
gent desire to refer all circumstances and 
events to the wise providence of God — 



these cheer the soul, and tend rather to 
prolong than to shorten human existence. 
"I have meat to eat," said the Saviour, 
"that ye know not of. My meat is to 
do the will of Him that sent me." John 
iv. 32, 34. 

It is a part of the Divine economy, in 
training immortals here upon the earth, 
that " the poor shall never cease out 
of the land." Deut. xv. 11. In conse- 
quence of this, God issued his command, 
" thou shalt open thine hand wide unto 
thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy 
needy." See v. 11, latter clause* A com- 
pliance with this command, in our moral 
training, results, as the performance of 
duty always does, in privilege. 

Now it occurs in our parochial arrange- 
ments, that the time and labor of the 
minister of a church and congregation are 



8 

required to satisfy the demands of those 
from whom he derives support ; and in 
the cities peculiarly are found individuals 
and families who are not affiliated with 
our churches or congregations, but live, 
as it were, in the interstices between them. 
Hence come City Missions. Hence the 
benefit that accrues to "the poor of this 
world," some of whom have been found 
or have become, by this instrumentality, 
blessed be God for it! "rich in faith." 

Such service my reverend and vener- 
ated brother in Christ has now been la- 
boring to render to his fellow men among 
us for all but thirty years — his twenty- 
ninth Annual Keport having just left the 
press. To this service his Master seemed 
to call him, as he once did Matthew, 
" from the receipt of custom," from those 
secular pursuits in which he had ex- 



hibited his honesty, industry and skill, in 
an observable and commendable degree, 
winning the approbation of the most dis- 
tinguished merchants of our day — or 
rather of a preceding generation — now 
not living on earth. 

The Reports to which I have alluded, 
do honor, not only to the missionary, but 
to those who kindly, and it is not doubted, 
conscientiously, have made him, among 
several others of the servants of Christ, 
their almoner. The Lord reward them, 
and continue to honor his servant ! So 
prays his aged though not quite coeval 
friend, 

WILLIAM JENKS. 

99 Boylston Street, 
August 4th, 1862. 



BIRTH-DAY GATHERING. 




S the sun was nearing the horizon 
on one of the longest of summer 
days* — fit emblems of declining 
years and of a protracted life — friends 
began to assemble at the house of Rev. 
Charles Cleveland, No. 28 East Spring- 
field Street, Boston, to congratulate him 
upon the occasion of his Ninetieth Birth- 
day. 

* The visit was arranged for Monday evening, the 23d of 
June, instead of Saturday evening, the 21st, so as not to 
interfere with the ordinary arrangements and preparations 
for the Sabbath. 



12 

The company, numbering nearly three- 
score, was composed, with few exceptions, 
of persons beyond the meridian of life, 
including a goodly number quite advanced 
in years. 

Though none of the guests had reached 
the longevity of the patriarch whose birth- 
day they had gathered to celebrate, yet 
there were few, if any, present, whose 
vivacity, capacity, and relish for social 
enjoyments, seemed to have been dimin- 
ished by the flight of years. And of all 
present, none evidently enjoyed the social 
intercourse and pleasantries of the occa- 
sion more than their honored host 

The clerical, legal and medical profes- 
sions were liberally represented — six of 
the former beside their host, and four of 
the latter being present, and most of them 



13 

with their wives. Of persons of various 
business occupations there w r as a good 
representation; and, as the sequel will 
show, from the muses a large and worthy 
deputation. 

Many and hearty were the expressions 
of congratulation on the joyful occasion ; 
and many were the reminiscences of by- 
gone days, related by the various parties. 
After an hour and a half or two hours of 
free, cheerful, social intercourse between 
the host and his numerous guests, the 
party were invited to the dining-room for 
entertainment. This and all the apart- 
ments of the house, were tastefully and 
profusely decorated with boquets of choic- 
est flowers, presented by several friends. 
The tables were plentifully supplied with 
what was suited to meet the tastes and 



14 

satisfy the wants of the outer man. After 
an appropriate acknowledgment, through 
Kev. Dr. Blagden, of God's kindness and 
compassion in the gifts of his common 
and more special bounties, the company 
very cheerfully partook of the repast pro- 
vided, and returned to the parlor, to be 
further refreshed by " a feast of reason 
and flow of soul." 

As, however, no arrangements had been 
previously made either to procure special 
addresses or speeches, or to take note of 
what should be spoken or done on the 
occasion, and no thought had been enter- 
tained of any other than an ordinary 
newspaper notice of the gathering, till 
weeks subsequently thereto, it would be 
in vain to attempt a report of the various 
remarks elicited. 



15 

Under such circumstances it may suffice 
to say, that what was presented in a form 
susceptible of retention and preservation, 
was in keeping with all else that trans- 
pired on the occasion. 

First, occurred the presentation to the 
honored host of a Vase, very ingeniously 
and tastefully wreathed with leaves of 
different hues, accompanied by the follow- 
ing lines : — 

PRESENTED TO THE REV. CHARLES CLEVELAND, 

On his Ninetieth Birthday. 

I asked of Earth some offering worthy him 
Who, fourscore-years-and-ten, in faith has trod 
Her changing paths — his earthly eye not dim, 
Nor earthly force abated, though the brim 
Of his full cup of life is running o'er 
With duties done, and doing even more. 
A man of hoary hair and aspect mild ; 
In years, a veteran — but, in heart, a child. 



16 



Smiling, she flung me these few scattered leaves. 
" Blend them," she said, " in one harmonious whole ; 
Types let them be of those immortal sheaves 
Which garner up the treasures of the soul ; 
The green of Spring — the Summer's yellow crown ; 
The Autumn's crimson — Winter's healthy brown ; 
Emblems of memories that never grow old, 
Shrine them in azure and rim them with gold." 

And is this all, O Earth, that thou canst give — 

These few, poor scattered remnants of the past ? 

Bright, though they be, with hues that still outlive 

The sunny days that set their colors fast ? 

These are but memories. Hast thou nothing more — 

Nothing that whispers from beyond the shore 

That bounds thee ? She answered, " Memories are 

given 
By Earth ; for Hopes and Promises, ask Heaven." 

Upward I turn mine eye ; I lay mine ear 
Close to the heavenly gates. With steady poise 
Bright angels hover o'er me — sweeping near, 
Their garments touch me — and now, Hark ! a voice ! 



IT 



" To him that overcome tli in the strife, 

Him who has done my work and kissed my rod, 

I give to eat the blessed Tree of Life 

That blossoms in the Paradise of God." 

June 21, 1S62. C. 



By another was presented the follow- 
ing : 

TO THE REV. CHARLES CLEVELAND, 
On his Ninetieth Birthday, June 21, 1862. 

So far, thou servant blest of God, 

Through all of fourscore-years-and-ten, 

The path of life hast safely trod, 

And still thy step is firm : What then ? 

So far His hand hath held thee up 

Through all thy fourscore-years-and-ten ; 

And filled with gifts life's varied cup, 

Which soon must overflow : What then ? 



18 



So far, thy faith hath guided thee, 

Through all thy fours core-years-and-ten, 

To bless the Homes of Poverty, 

And raise them nearer heaven : What then ? 

What then ? The Father's blessed hand, 
Beyond thy fourscore-years-and-ten, 

Shall lead thee through this Canaan land, 
To an approaching end : What then ? 

A halo weave around thy brow, 

And change thy fourscore-years-and-ten 

To One — the everlasting Now, 

In His blest realms above : What then ? 

Then, Father ! spare my aching sight ! 

No pains — no poor — no sin — no strife ; 
But one unclouded scene of light, 

And years on earth exchanged for Life. 

Lewis G. Pray. 



19 

Eev. Nehemiah Adams, D. D. 5 who was 
unable to be present, sent the following 
note : — 

Boylston Place, June 23, 1862. 
My Dear Mr, and Mrs. Cleveland : 

Were it not for engagements, I would surely be 

with you this evening, to congratulate you, and to 

wish you good cheer. I must be satisfied with doing 

this by pen and ink, which I do most heartily. Be 

of good comfort. Your friends are many and are 

multiplying, and one day you will have them all in 

one. 

Very affectionately yours, 

N. ADAMS. 



Hon. Abraham R. Thompson sent his 
good wishes as follows : — 

Charlestown, June 18, 1862. 



Rev. Charles Cleveland, 

My venerable and honored Friend : 



I received your letter of March 27, and thank 
you for the inclosed photograph, which immediately 
found a place among my family group ; and I assure 



20 



you, my dear Sir, that both Mrs. Thompson and 
myself would be happy to have you call at our house, 
and find your good old face, with many dear ones 
whose names, I firmly believe, (with yours,) are all 
written in the " Lamb's book of life." 

At the time I received your note, I should have 
replied to it at once ; but at that time I fully intended 
to have acknowledged it in propria persona, on the 
evening of your ninetieth Birthday. I regret that I 
must be absent from home, after to-day, until the 
middle of next week. I shall take the earliest oppor- 
tunity, in my power, to call on you. 

That the evening of your well-spent life may be 
brightened by that clear " faith which is the sub- 
stance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things 
not seen," and your heart elevated and cheered by 
that ' hope which is the anchor of the soul, firm and 
steadfast, entering into that which is within the veil/ 
6 whither Jesus, our forerunner, hath for us entered 
once for all, having obtained eternal redemption for 
us/ is the fervent prayer of 

Your affectionate friend, 

AB'M R. THOMPSON, 



21 

By another was presented the following 

At threescore-years-and-ten, 

Our pilgrim bounds are set ; 
And if to fourscore we attain, 
"lis but a lease of toil and pain — 

With these we pay the debt. 

So speaks the Holy Word, 

Experience proves it true ; 
A green old age of mind and heart, 
Quick to enjoy and to impart, 

Are for a chosen few. 

But what a wondrous sight, 

Do we this day behold ! 
Fourscore-and-ten our Father stands, 
Vigorous in head and heart and hands ; 

We cannot call him old : 

With his whole armor on, 

Working while others rest, 
With unexhausted zeal and love, 
Drawn from the heart of Christ above, 

Pursues his mission, blest. 



22 

Let all the praise be given 

To Thee, Father above, 
Who hast endowed with such rich grace, 
With vigorous powers and length of days. 

Thy servant, whom we love. 

Because these gifts are Thine, 

And Thou so much hast given, 
Add still another halfscore years, 
Until the full-orbed sphere appears, 
Before it rise in heaven, 

Eliza Ooodale, 



From another pen were the following 
lines: — 

TO THE REV. AND VENERABLE CHARLES CLEVELAND, 
On his Ninetieth Birthday„ 

Tell us, O Seer, that dost serenely stand 

Upon the Pisgah of thy ninety years, 
What lies about thee in the landscape grand 
Where the pure light from out the Promised Land 

Spans with its peace the valley-mist of tears ? 



23 



Read us the vision, with its backward reach 

O'er the long wayfare in the wilderness, 
And onward, to the farther Jordan-beach 
That marks the bound where endeth mortal speech ; 
Where Thought is Life, and Life grows measure- 
less ! 

Still toiling on, along the middle plain, 

With the hot dust of noon upon the brow, 
On that calm height we hail thee, and would fain 
Catch through thine eyes a glimpse to soothe oer 
pain, — 
Rest from our Future, for the restless Now ! 

How shall it look, when we, too, come to gaze 

Forth from that mountain of expectancy 
Where culminates the trending of these ways, 
And all the gathered gleams of earthly days 
Pour their full flood in one fair sunset sea ? 

Ah, useless asking ! None but Moses might 
Look from his own life-ending ; and the path 

Each soul doth tread, may lapse in heavenly light, 

Or wind away into the hopeless night, 

Red only with the evening clouds of wrath ! 



24 



We give thee solemn joy, then, that hast come 

By daily access of thy faithful deed, — 
By steps whereof God's mercy keeps the sum, — 
Safely to stand where human praise is dumb, 

And Christ's " Well done" is thine eternal meed ! 

A. d. t. w, 




NARRATIVE BY REV. MR. CLEVELAND. 




FTER the preceding 'first course/ 
the company were served by their 
Host with a " Sketch of Incidents 
and Changes in the Life of Charles Cleve- 
land;" — of which the following is a 
synopsis : 

Charles Cleveland w T as born in Nor- 
wich, Connecticut, June 21, 1772. 

— Was taken to Salem, Massachusetts, 
and placed in the family of his uncle, 
William Cleveland, in March, 1784. 

— Sailed on a voyage to the Cape of 
Good Hope, in the brig Good Hope, No- 
vember 2.6, 1786. 



26 

— Was apprenticed to Francis Cabot, 
merchant, Salem, to September, 1789. 

— "Was clerk and deputy collector at 
the Custom House in Salem, from Septem- 
ber, 1789, to 1802. 

— Removed to Charlestown, and was 
engaged as clerk in the store of Stephen 
and Henry Higginson, from 1802 to 1809. 

— Commenced the business of stock 
and exchange broker, in Boston, 1809, 
and continued in the above business till 
1816. While in this business he pub- 
lished a set of exchange tables, giving, in 
dollars and cents, the exchange from Id. 
to £5,000 ; and at from 2 per cent ad- 
vance, down to 25 per cent discount, vary- 
ing ^ per cent on each sum. These tables 
were recommended by James Lloyd, Wil- 
liam Parsons, Stephen Higginson, Sen., 
George Cabot, James Perkins, , William 



27 

Pratt, Timothy Williams, Thomas H. Per- 
kins, Israel Thorndike, Kirk Boott, Ed- 
ward Tuckerman, Samuel H. Walley, and 
Peter C. Brooks ; all numbered, long since, 
with the dead. These tables are still in 
use, both in this country and in England ; 
and a copy of them is preserved in the 
British Museum. 

From 1816, for nine years, he was en- 
gaged in mercantile pursuits, under the 
firm of Cleveland & Dane, on Market 
street, the street now changed in its name 
to Cornhill. 

At about the time Mr. Cleveland entered 
upon his mercantile pursuits, he became 
deeply interested in the formation of the 
Society for the Moral and Eeligious In- 
struction of the Poor. The Society was 
organized at his house, Sept. 26, 1816. 
Rev. Joshua Huntington was elected the 



28 

first President; William Thurston, Esq., 
Vice President ; George J. Homer, Treas- 
urer ; E. Duren, Secretary ; and Deacon 
Josiah Salisbury, Dea. Thomas Vose, Dea. 
Pliny Cutler, Mr. Samuel T. Armstrong, 
Mr. Charles Cleveland, Dea. J. E. Tyler, 
and Mr. Henry Gray, Managers. The 
first anniversary sermon was preached by 
Eev. Mr. Huntington, October 8, 1817 ; 
the second anniversary sermon, by Rev. 
William Jenks, D. D., October 24, 1818. 

In 1819, a committee were chosen to 
select and purchase a lot on w T hich to 
erect a " Mission House," " expressly for 
the accommodation of the poor of West 
Boston." Purchase was made of Joseph 
Pierce, Esq., of a lot bordering on Garden 
and Buttolph streets, for one thousand 
dollars, which sum was collected for that 
purpose by Mr. Cleveland, from different 



29 

denominations of Christians in the city. 
Afterwards, a sum sufficient to erect and 
finish the House was obtained, and it was 
dedicated in May, 1821. The sermon 
upon the occasion w^as preached by Rev. 
William Jenks, D. D. 

In 1830, September 10, Mr. Cleveland 
received an appointment to the office of a 
Missionary to the Poor of the city, asso- 
ciated with Eev. Ethan Smith and Rev. 
D. D. Bosseter ; than which, an office 
more acceptable could not have been 
given him. 

In 1833, April 3, the funds of the 
Society being much reduced, the Mana- 
gers thought it best to dismiss the three 
missionaries then in their employ, and to 
engage the Eev. Mr. Barbour, of Byfieid, 
to occupy the pulpit of the Mission House 
on the Sabbath, and engage in visiting 



30 

as many of the poor as he could during 
the week. Each of the missionaries, on 
their dismissal, were presented with fifty 
dollars, as a testimony of approbation from 
the Board of Managers. 

Under these circumstances, Rev. Dr. 
Jenks wrote and signed a recommendation 
in behalf of Mr. Cleveland, as a mission- 
ary to the poor upon his own individual 
responsibility. This document, so affec- 
tionately drawn up, in the trust that the 
divine blessing would accompany his 
labors in leading precious souls to the 
knowledge of Him who came to seek 
and save the lost, was signed also by 
Rev. Messrs. J. H. Linsley, George W. 
Blagden, Amos A. Phelps, Hubbard Win- 
slow, and Jonathan Greenleaf. 

In 1835, April 22, at a meeting of the 
Harmony Association at Upton, Mr. Cleve- 



31 

land received approbation for license to 
preach the gospel for one year. 

In 1836, April 21, the license was ex- 
tended to four years. 

In 1838, July 10, at Sutton, he received 
ordination from the same Association to 
preach the gospel as an evangelist. 

In 1839, September 25, he received the 
following recommendation from Rev. Dr. 
Jenks, to labor as a minister of the gospel 
and a missionary : 

" To the blessing of God, and to the kindness of 
the friends of truth, love and usefulness, Mr. Cleve- 
land is cordially recommended by his sincere well- 
wisher, and former fellow-laborer, 

WILLIAM JENKS, 

Pastor of G-reen St. Church. 

The above was signed also by Rev. 
Messrs. George W. Blagden, Hubbard 
Winslow, A. Boise, Joseph H. Towne, 



32 

Daniel M. Lord, William M. Rogers, J. 
H. Fairchild, Silas Aiken, and Nehemiah 
Adams. 

" After thirty years' labor on this exten- 
sive field," Mr. Cleveland concludes. " I 
am, in my own view, as able, at this 
advanced age, to meet the duties and tri- 
als of the missionary life, as at any time 
within the last ten years. Our blessed 
Lord, when about ascending to his Father, 
said, ' My Father w 7 orketh hitherto, and I 
work/ Yes, it was his ' meat to do the 
will of him that sent him, and to finish 
his w T ork.' Let it be my study to imitate 
his example, treading in his footprints. 
He was anointed to preach the gospel to 
the poor. To this humble class of our 
population may it be my purpose to carry 
the glad tidings, as occasions may favor. 
He shrank from no sufferings at the call 



33 

of duty connected with his glorious object, 
8 to seek and save that which was lost.' 
May the like spirit move the heart and 
hands of his missionary. 

84 The question is now and then put to 
me, 'When do you mean to retire from this 
labor among the poor % ' I answer, When 
age and infirmity admonish me of its neces- 
sity, and not before. At whatever hour it 
may please the Giver of life to remove me 
from all earthly cares — dissolving this 
tabernacle of clay — may it be my happi- 
ness to say, in the words of our Lord, 
8 Father, I have finished the work thou 
gavest me to do, and now I come to thee.' 

" ' Grace be with all them that love our 
Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity,' is the 
prayer of 

" CHARLES CLEVELAND, 

"Missionary to the Poor. 
" No. 28 East Springfield St., June 21 r 1862." 
c 



34 

After the recital, by Father Cleveland, 
of his brief sketch, in a full, distinct, 
clear voice, the Rev. Dr. Jenks led in a 
prayer appropriate to the occasion, and 
the company began to retire, each parting 
with their veteran Host with affectionate 
salutations and kind wishes. But while 
some still lingered, the Patriarch of the 
household requested a brother clergyman, 
yet remaining, to lead in the devotions 
of the family, as they were gathered now 
late in the evening, around the family 
altar. 

Thus closed the social interchanges 
and religious services of an occasion 
which will be cherished and long live in 
the memories of those who were present 
and participated in its scenes. 

In addition to what may be indicated 
by the brief outline of Father Cleveland's 



35 

remarks relating to his missionary duties 
and engagements, it may be proper to 
state, that he has penned and published 
several addresses in the form of Tracts, 
among which may be mentioned, an " Ad- 
dress to Sons of the Ocean;" u To Mas- 
ters, Mates, and Seamen ;" " Address from 
a City Missionary to the Poor of this 
World;" "Address to the Children of 
the Farm School," &c. 



The following lines, with the prefatory 
note, will explain themselves : 

TO FATHER CLEVELAND, OF BOSTON, 

After the Social Gathering at his house, on the Evening of June 23, 
1862. 

It was in the month of roses. 

The sweetest of the year, 
The aged man his Birthday kept, 

For loving hearts and dear. 



36 

'Twas riot a fancy group that met 

The aged man that eve ; 
They came not, with their flatt'ring looks, 

Their hurried words to leave. 

True, there was grace and beauty there , 
But genius also ; wisdom, fame ; 

Physicians kind, and pastors true, 
And friends, all worthy of the name. 

Fair woman, with poetic art, 

Beside the pilgrim stood. 
My muse was silent ; thus may I 

Tell how the muses wooed. 

And age was there, with age to speak 

The memories of the past ; 
And note the wonders of that grace 

That keepeth to the last. 

Brave veteran, with thy ninety years 

Of pleasure, toil and care, 
Thou hast not failed to bear the cross , 

And thou a crown shalt wear. 



37 

'Mid crowded mart and narrow lane, 
Thy feet have often trod, 

And ever loved to bear to all 
A message from thy God. 

Unto the hungry thou hast given 
Food for the mortal frame ; 

And by the dying thou hast stood, 
And prayed in Jesus' name. 

Go on — thy Master may have yet 
More work for thee to do ; 

More souls to win, ere it be thine 
Heaven's golden gates to view. 

We'll love to meet thee, wheresoe'er 
Thy footsteps yet may tend ; 

And may the angel of God's grace 
Thy pathway still defend. 

Each happy moment spent with thee 
Thy friends will ne'er forget, 

And cherish all thy deeds of love 
When thy " last sun " is set. 

Charlestoion. Mass. 



M. D. B. 



38 

The following letter from Mrs. Sigour- 
ney was received sometime subsequently 
to the Gathering, at w 7 hich it had been 
hoped she might be present. 

Hartford, July 30, 1862. 
Rev. and Dear Sir : 

Your kind epistle of the 25th ultimo, arrived 
just as I was leaving home for my annual visit to the 
sea-shore ; and I took it with me, intending to answer 
it there, amid the pleasant sound of the waves, climb- 
ing and receding from the pebbly beach. But it so 
happened that I brought it back, with a number of 
others, still unanswered ; and now, in acknowledging 
it, I have the pleasure of thanking you for the gift of 
your very excellent " Twenty-ninth Report," every 
word of which I read with delight, as soon as it was 
received. 

What a delightful gathering you must have had 
at your house, in commemoration of your ninetieth 
birthday. How much I should have enjoyed being 
present on that occasion, to have listened to the 
addresses of the distinguished ministers who were 
present, and especially to the sketch of your life from 



39 



your own revered lips. I am happy to know that 
you have consented to give it to the public through 
the press. 

Lift high the page, that all may see 
"What Grod can do, and man may he. 

It seems to me, that your new Report is the best 
of any that you have issued. But so I have thought, 
respecting the last one, for several years. I shud- 
dered when I realized that you were, last winter, 
traversing the ice-covered streets — for with us they 
were almost impassable for a long time — without 
temerity. Did you not carry in your heart the talis- 
man, " He keepeth all his bones ; not one of them is 
broken." 

Your description of the visit to Hon. Josiah 
Quincy is very interesting. When recently at the 
sea-shore, I rode several miles to see an excellent 
lady of ninety-six. Light had departed from her 
eyes, and sound faintly lingered in its citadel ; but 
her intellect was clear, and her social and devout 
feelings in healthful exercise. 

May you long be spared for your blessed work of 
benevolence. I inclose a small donation of five dol- 



40 

lars for your pensioners. My love to your good 
wife. I thank you both for reading the " Daily 
Counsellor " with me every morning. When I have 
finished it for one year, I begin it again for another, 
as though it were a new book. Your photograph is 
admired by many visitants to my parlor. 

Truly and affectionately your friend, 

L. H. SIGOURNEY. 



The following, from the Boston Jour- 
nal, is here appropriately introduced, in 
connection with an engraving copied from 
the photograph to which the lines allude. 



ON THE PHOTOGRAPH OF REV. MR. CLEVELAND, GIVING 
A LOAF OF BREAD TO A POOR GIRL. 

A loaf within her basket, 

That humble beggar-child, 
The good man lays with pitying eyes, 
And to her grateful voice replies 

In tones devoutly mild. 



41 

He seeks her soul's salvation, 
Of " Living Bread " he tells, 
And on this double mission bent 
His consecrated days are spent, 

To search where misery dwells. 

Yes, even when dreary Winter 
With frost and snow presides, 
He climbs the steep and slippery stair, 
While an unseen Protector's care 
His feet in safety guides. 

He bears the smile of mercy 

To hovel and to shed ; 
The poor he feeds, he dries their tears, 
While lightly sit his ninety years 

Upon that reverend head. 

Age hath not quell'd his pleasures, 
Their fountain is above ; 
He joyeth in the joy he gives, 
And here on earth the life he lives 
That glows with heavenly love. 



42 



Still like the loved Apostle, 

May he his course pursue, 
Rejoicing in his Master's grace 
Until he rise to see his face 

With unrestricted view. 

L. H. SlGOURNEY. 

Hartford, Conn., June 21, 1862. 



The following is from the Boston Even- 
ing Transcript, of October 23, 1862. 

TO REV. CHARLES CLEVELAND, 

MY AGED AND HONORED UNCLE. 

Clouds and sunshine on thy pathway, 

Changing scenes for ninety years, 
Intermingling joy and sorrow, 

Buoyant hopes and anxious fears — 
Like the blending hues of autumn, 

Like its ever-varying skies, 
Fading, bright'ning, and still fleeting, 

Life hath passed before thine eyes. 



43 

On the right and left around thee 

Mortals have been falling fast, 
Underneath Death's mighty sickle, 

While these ninety years have pass'd ; 
Yet, through this far-reaching vista, 

Even back to childhood's days, 
On the verge of thine existence 

It is left for thee to gaze. 

Ninety years ! how long, prospective, 

Seemeth such a life as this ! 
To the worldling, an assurance 

Of it, would be perfect bliss. 
But thine heart gives utterance truly 

To the words proclaimed of old, 
" Life is but a passing vapor, 

But a dream that soon is told." 



Praise to Him whose grace hath led thee 
In the Christian's path to tread, 

And upon thy fellow-mortals 
Blessings all divine to shed ; 



44 

In thy Master's footsteps treading, 

Doing good from day to day, 
To the "poor" the gospel preaching, 

Pointing to the " narrow way." 

May that same kind Hand protect thee 

That hath ever led thee on, 
And the presence of His Spirit 

Cheer thee till thy work is done ; 
And in that bright world of glory, 

Where time's measured not by years, 
May a life unending crown thee, 

Burdened not by sighs or tears. 

A. c. JUDSON. 




EXTRACTS FROM JOURNAL. 




ANY personal friends of the aged 
missionary will doubtless be glad 
to preserve, in convenient form, 
some memorials of his labors ; and as 
many others not familiarly, or at all, 
personally acquainted with them, may be 
interested and profited by their perusal, it 
is believed that a few pages may be prop- 
erly appended, containing extracts from 
his Journal, portions of which he has 
been accustomed to publish annually 
during the past thirty years, nearly, of 
his missionary labors in the city. 



46 

The selections are taken from only two 
or three, as specimens, of his twenty-nine 
Annual Reports, — exhibiting, incident- 
ally, the character, style, and manner, of 
his missionary labors, as well as his 
appreciation of the character and co-ope- 
ration of those who have been cotempo- 
rarv and fellow T -laborers with him in efforts 
for the relief of suffering humanity. 

In his Seventh Annual Report, for the 
year 1840, Mr. Cleveland published, in 
full, the Testimonial of Rev. Dr. Jenks, 
and others, mentioned on pages 31 and 
32 ; but on his Birthday Gathering, prob- 
ably from feelings of delicacy, he omitted 
entirely the testimonial respecting him- 
self, and only selected the commendation 
of Mr. Cleveland by the brethren, " to the 
blessing of God, and to the kindness of 
the friends of truth," &c. 



47 

In this testimonial " to all whom it may 
concern," it is stated, as one ground of 
his fitness for the service of a gospel 
missionary in the city : " Mr. Cleveland 
has long been connected with managers 
of several of the most active and impor- 
tant institutions of Christian benevolence 
among us, and, it may be said, is thor- 
oughly conversant with their operation." 

The closing remarks in the above-named 
Report, as well as the extracts from his 
Journal, will indicate his acquaintance 
with the artifices to which persons some- 
times resort, to awaken the sympathies of 
the benevolent. 

Here I may be permitted to remark, from per- 
sonal observation, that in this good city there are 
not a few, whose benevolence far outweighs their 
discretion, on whom are occasionally practiced the 
grossest impositions, such as the eyes of an Argus 



48 



would not easily detect. An individual who, in 
full health, will prefer begging to work, will pour 
many sad complaints into the ears of the credu- 
lous, in the hope to excite a compassion prompting 
to an accommodating answer. Yielding to the 
bare word of an entire stranger is, manifestly, 
neither wise nor prudent — attended with no ben- 
efit, either to the giver or receiver ; but, in some 
cases, proving an incalculable injury to the latter. 
However plausible or embellished their story, it 
can have no claim whatever to our notice, except 
as confirmed by collateral evidence. 

As a summary of religious services held 

in 1840, he gives the following : 

Neighborhood meetings, 55 ; at Eye and Ear 
Infirmary, 74 ; Penitent Females' Refuge, 37 ; 
United States Marine Hospital, Chelsea, 37; Re- 
treat, 29 ; Mission House, 25 ; House of Correc- 
tion, 6 ; Lunatic Hospital, 2 ; Pitts Street Chapel, 
1 ; Suffolk Chapel, 1 ; Farm School, 3 ; West 
Roxbury, 7 ; Sherburne, 5. Total, 284. 

In the Report of the above year, as in 
Reports of other years, Mr. Cleveland 



49 

relates, at some length, interviews with 
sundry persons, in sickness and affliction, 
who have been led hopefully to Christ. 

1840. January 16. Extreme cold. Visited 
Mrs. P., Boylston Street. The aged mother had 
gone out to gather chips, while, with an infant 
infolded in her arms, Mrs. P. was shivering over 
a little fire from their last stick. Signs of deep 
poverty could not be mistaken. No time was to 
be lost in procuring assistance. Two feet of wood 
were immediately sent, sawed, and piled in the 
room. Other aid was given. 

January 30. Visited Mrs. E., whose husband 
was lost from the " Lexington." The distressed 
woman, with four small children, excited my com- 
passion. Their case was commended to the gra- 
cious care of Him who is ever near the widow 
and the fatherless, to comfort and sustain them. 
Assisted the family from poor's fund. 

Passing over the Reports of the inter- 
vening sixteen years, in the Report of 
1856, (his twenty-third,) he says: "My 



50 

heart swells with emotions of devout grat- 
itude and praise to the ' Father of mer- 
cies,' in whom are all our springs, for His 
most gracious and unremitted watchful- 
ness over me from the morning of life to 
the present moment." He speaks of his 
health as having been remarkably good, 
and of a great amount of suffering among 
the poor. 

In connection with the record of the 
death of ten of the contributors to his 
mission, during the year, two of whom 
were ninety and upward, and two others 
eighty and upward, he says : " Having 
reached my eighty-fifth year, I cannot, nor 
w 7 ould I. conceal from myself the solemn 
truth, that this countenance must soon be 
changed. ' Man giveth up the ghost, and 
where is he % ' Let the prophet Daniel 
answer, chapter xii. 2." 



51 



1855. September 12. A kind friend remarked, 
"It is said, you assist the Orthodox rather than the 
Unitarians." Keply — "No: I make no distinc- 
tion. Under like circumstances, they are alike 
treated. Whenever and wherever suffering is seen, 
there relief is given. Of whatever nation, or com- 
plexion, or sect, the afflicted individual or family 
shall have aid as their different cases demand. 
My poor's fund is made up from all denomina- 
tions ; but apart from this, were I to show par- 
tiality in any case, favoring one class and neglecting 
others, my work ought not, for a moment, to 
receive countenance." 

October 25. Visited a family in Pearl Place. 
When in health, Mrs. W., a vender of fruit, is 
industrious and deserving. Her husband, shiftless 
and intemperate, — a living trouble to his family. 
His wife now very sick. Her nurse complained 
of destitution of necessaries. Supplied with coal, 
and money for medicines. 

November 17. Visited Mrs. Kelsey, 123 Pur- 
chase Street, (sixty-three steps to attic.) Has a 
husband and three children, poor and shiftless. 

Same day. Visited a poor young widow at the 
Albion, (seventy-seven steps.) Assisted. On my 



52 



way home, purchased for distribution, forty-one 
yards cotton flannel. 

November 24. A young gentleman from Cam- 
bridge University called upon me, kindly offering 
himself as an assistant in my missionary excursions 
in January vacation, should I desire it. Most 
promptly, cordially, and gratefully was his benevo- 
lent proposal accepted. (See Kecord, 18th Feb- 
ruary.) 

November 28. Received the following note 
from a clerical friend : 

Sandwich, 28th Nov., 1855. 

Rev. and dear Brother : As it is approaching the day of 
Thanksgiving, when there is special occasion for the 
remembrance of the poor, whether they be virtuous or 
vicious, and, as I believe, none are more poor and needy 
than may be found in our large cities, and few, if any. 
better qualified to distribute to their necessities than 
Father Cleveland, I send you five dollars in aid of your 
mission. 

Truly your fellow-servant in Christ, 

G. P. 

Note. — How refreshing to the heart, such timely 
" tokens for good!" 



53 



1856. February 18. My young friend from 
Cambridge came to assist me in my work, as he 
proposed 24th November. Gave him a list of 
names on cards left with Furbush. 

Note. — On the 19th, he visited 8 cases ; on the 
20th, 15 ; on the 25th, 15 ; — 38 cases. Having, 
with intelligence and the kindliest sympathies, 
visited all needing help, he left for home, leaving 
the following note : " May the God of love, whose 
blessed lips said, ( It is more blessed to give than 
to receive/ accompany Mr. Cleveland in his labors 
of love, till it shall be time for him to make his 
last report with great joy to our dear Master, Jesus, 
in heaven. Amen." 

May 7. Attended the funeral of Dr. John C. 
Warren, one of my best patrons, having in eighteen 
consecutive years given cheerfully to this mission. 



The following extracts are from his 
Twenty-ninth Eeport : 

With the termination of the twenty-ninth year 
of labors on this field, embracing the entire city, 
ninety years of my travel toward " a better 
country, 5 ' have been numbered. I may well say, 



54 



"Goodness and mercy have followed me" amid 
every trial, wisely appointed by Him, by whose 
gracious arm I have been protected through all my 
travels over the streets, alleys and places of the city. 
The soul-refreshing promise, " I will never leave 
thee nor forsake thee," hath been my comfort and 
support throughout my protracted years. 

1861. July 16. (Tuesday.) Attended funeral 
of Hon. Nathan Appleton, aged 81, a gentleman 
of well-known excellence of character, modest, 
unpretending, but of high standing in the com- 
munity ; many years the honored President of the 
Massachusetts Hospital Life Insurance Company. 
He had been a contributor to this mission from 
its commencement. 

23. (Tuesday.) This day, departed to his final 
rest, Dea. Moses Grant, aged 74. His Christian 
and philanthropic disposition, giving his time, tal- 
ents and influence to the cause of the " fatherless 
and widows in their affliction," will be remembered 
by thousands, waiting at his door every forenoon, 
to relate in turn their various cases of want, and 
never departing without supply and appropriate 
counsel, from one quick to discern character, and 



55 



as prompt to give unequivocal evidence of Chris- 
tian sympathy in every case presented before him. 
26. (Friday.) Attended the funeral of Dea. 
Grant, at Brattle Street Church. Services by the 
Rev. Dr. Lothrop, Pastor, assisted by Dr. E. M. 
P. Wells. Various portions of Scripture read, and 
the Hymn well answering to the character and 
prospects of the beloved Moses Grant : 

44 When I can read my title clear, 
To mansions in the skies, 
I bid farewell to every fear, 
And wipe my weeping eyes." 

28. (Sunday.) Passed the day at Grantville. 
From Rev. Mr. Atwood, listened to a sermon on 
the death of Dea. Grant, whose character was in 
all faithfulness described to an audience well know- 
ing that the village of their home received its name 
in honor of its departed friend. I could not leave 
without bearing testimony to the appropriateness 
of the sermon, to the case before us. Ere long, 
dear white-robed saint, my emancipated spirit will 
be with thine, and the innumerable company, lift- 
ing up the sweet notes of harp and voice, in the 
everlasting song of Moses and the Lamb. — Rev. 
xv. 3. 



56 



August 12. (Monday.) Delivered for distribu- 
tion, to the Librarian of the Young Men's Chris- 
tian Association, jive hundred Tracts, " Address to 
the Sons of the Ocean," — written by myself, in 
the hope that some good might result from an evi- 
dence thus given of an interest in the welfare of a 
class of fellow-beings exposed to temptations much 
beyond those met by landsmen. 

September 17. (Tuesday.) Visited Mrs. Lam- 
bert, Vinal Place, age 87. Upon the borders of 
the heavenly Canaan, into which her departed 
spirit will have an abundant entrance, giving evi- 
dence full of a happy preparation for such change. 

22. (Sunday.) Preached at Penitent Females' 
Refuge, from Eev. xv. 2-4. 

October 27. (Sunday.) Preached at Farm School, 
from Job xix. 25-27, in the forenoon; and in 
the afternoon, from Rev. xv. 2-4. 

December 19. (Thursday.) Visited a poor, 
afflicted family. A daughter who was married 
several years since, became insane, through the 
cruel treatment of her husband, and is now in the 
Somerville Hospital. The parents before me wept. 
No wonder. Endeavored to draw from the sacred 
oracles — the treasure-house of the Christian — 



57 



such truths as seemed adapted to the case presented 
before me by the weeping parents of the distracted 
woman. They have my most tender sympathies. 
The Lord knoweth their trouble, and to his gra- 
cious care I commit their distressing case. 

24. (Tuesday.) Weather clear and cold. Vis- 
ited patrons in Mount Vernon Street, Park Street, 
Chestnut and Walnut Streets, distributing cards. 
Have great reason to bless my gracious Preserver, 
keeping me from falling while passing over streets 
filled with ice. Two notorious and impudent wo- 
men followed me throughout my walks. Repeat- 
edly said to them, " I shall give you nothing in the 
street," but they were deaf to my words. 

1862. January 4. (Saturday.) Visited Bridge 
Street ; good call. A widow with two children, in 
an attic. Gave aid with much pleasure. Visited 
in Hamilton Alley, Broad Street, and Pearl Place, 
and assisted. Weather clear and extremely cold. 
A kind friend said to me, u You ought not, at 
your age, to be running about as you do." Should 
I cease my labors, on these cold days, among the 
poor, with a view to relieve their sufferings, with 
what face could I, in the spring, ask subscriptions 



58 



to my salary? See 2 Thess. iii. 10. Received 

"a token for good" from Mr. and Mrs. . 

The husband hath been a liberal subscriber to 
salary, twenty-three consecutive years. The Lord 
bless the happy couple, and others of like spirit. 

6. (Monday.) Snow-storm. Having a bad cold, 
thought it prudent to keep within doors, working 
upon my books. 

9. (Thursday.) Visited and assisted families in 
Eochester, Lincoln, Utica, Federal and Williams 
Streets. Answered eighteen cards. 

10. (Friday.) Visited and assisted families in 
Curve, Oliver, Belmont, Hamilton, Orange and 
Federal Streets. 

16. (Thursday.) Clear and cold. Walking 
slippery. Visited and assisted families in Lincoln, 
Federal, Kingston, and Albany Streets, South 
Street Place, Kingston and Federal Courts, Albany 
and iEtna Places. Answered twenty-one cards. 
Could not leave my work for home — dined in my 
walks, upon gingerbread. Received cotton flannel 
from Mr. Chandler. 

18. (Saturday.) From Hovey & Co., a piece of 
print for my poor. From an aged lady annually 
contributing to my poor's fund, a note cheering to 



59 



my spirits, expressing her congratulations on my 
recovery from a wound, suffered from being run 
over by a horse, in October last ; and trusting that 
" many days were in store for me yet, to continue 
the grand mission." This kind note inclosed twenty 
dollars for my poor. I awoke this morning with 
the reflection that God "loveth the cheerful giver," 
and that a "rich recompense of reward" awaits 
every act of Christ-like charity to the suffering 
poor. 

" Give to the poor thy bread, 
Clothe the uncovered form, 
Throw shelter o'er the homeless head, 

That shrinks before the storm : 
So shall the prayers that grateful rise, 
Win blessings for thee from the skies." 

L. H. Sigoxtrney. 

21. (Tuesday.) Eeceived from a reverend 
brother, a note, the more welcome as coming from 
so warm a heart : u Inclosed is my subscription of 
five dollars to your noble work among the poor. 
Would that I were able to make it a hundred 
times as much." 

22. (Wednesday.) Snow-storm through the day. 
Visited and assisted in Kneeland, South, Cove, 
Utica, East, Lincoln, Purchase and Congress 



60 



Streets. A fatiguing day, but the Lord was my 
protector. 

28. (Tuesday.) Visited and assisted in Lincoln, 
Hanover, East, Kneeland, Cove, Oswego, Curve, 
Utica, Albany, Federal, Eochester and South 
Streets, Tyler's Court and Sullivan Place. Ice in 
plenty on sidewalks, wherever I went. Had a 
fall, but received no injury. Nineteen cases were 
visited on cards recorded. Answered thirteen 
cards handed me in my walks, making in all 
thirty- two cases relieved. At 215 Hanover Street, 
found a woman of seventy-six on a sick bed. 
Counseled her from the divine Word, and offered 
prayer. 

80. (Thursday.) Visited in Federal, Kingston, 
Essex, Williams and Congress Streets. Answered 
twenty-one cards. The walking rough and slip- 
pery. 

February 3. (Monday.) Lodged at Doe's store, 
a hundred Tracts, written for the poor. Have 
answered twenty-five cards, in Lincoln, Federal, 
Cooper and Prince Streets. 

4. (Tuesday.) Hon. Josiah Quincy entered this 
day on his ninety-first year. Called to see him, 
and was conducted by his good daughter to his 



61 



chamber. Found my good patron on his bed, 
his hip-bone having been dislocated some months 
since. Cannot forget his bright countenance. His 
hand was stretched out to take mine. Was 'glad 
to see me/ invit'ng me to sit. Asked him whether 
he did not expect we should meet in heaven. 
With characteristic modesty, he replied, u I hope 
so." I sat but a few minutes, and on leaving his 
bedside he gave me his hand and thanked me for 
my call. My heart was refreshed. The Lord bless 
the dear man. Visited in Federal and Kneeland 
Streets. At one call, husband could get no work — 
had five children to support. Gave with a ready 
hand, one dollar and coal. 

12. (Wednesday.) Answered twenty-eight cards, 
besides giving in scattering cases. 

13. (Thursday.) Answered nineteen cards. To 
all, of either sex, whose hearts sympathize with the 
afflicted, I would say — examine each case pre- 
sented for help, that you may not misapply your 
alms. 

15. (Saturday.) Assisted in eighteen cases. 
This day ended the mortal life of Hon. William 
Appleton. His character was well known through- 
out this community, as a model in works of beney- 



62 



olence. The spirit of our divine Master dwelt 
richly in him, whose daily walk was in full har- 
mony with the precepts and example of our 
blessed Lord. The gates of Zion were nearer his 
heart than all the dwellings of Jacob. The widow 
and the fatherless could bear testimony to the prac- 
tical piety of one who consecrated his all to deeds 
of Gospel Charity. Forty years, or more, I had 
opportunity to understand his worth, as a dispenser 
of good, in all known cases of suffering and want. 
See 1 Timothy vi. 17-19. 

" Weep not for him whose mortal span 
Completes its perfect round, 
His gifts well used, his length of days 

With hallowed lustre crowned. 
No tears for him — he gains the bliss 
Of more exalted spheres than this. 

"No tears save what the heart of love 

For its own loss must weep ; 
But yield her flame to history's hand, 

For unborn time to keep : 
Lift high the page, that earth shall see 
What Heaven can give, and man may be." 

L. H. SlGOURNET. 

21. (Friday.) Visited in Dover Street a woman 
with six children. Husband sick in a foreign 



63 



hospital. This case had my best sympathies, and 
was assisted freely. 

23. (Sunday.) Preached at Penitent Females' 
Refuge — Daniel iii. 16-18. 

March 5. (Wednesday.) Visited Eliot, Utica, 
Kneeland, South, Lincoln and East Streets. Have 
answered forty cards this day, giving in each case 
thirty cents in groceries, and in some cases adding 
a little money. 

30. (Sunday.) Preached at Penitent Females' 
Refuge — Daniel iv. 37. 

31. (Monday.) Attended the funeral of Miss 
Catharine Putnam, aged 84. The good lady, 
warm-hearted, rich in good works, gave her 
name and liberal aid to every benevolent object 
within her knowledge, from whatever quarter pre- 
sented, denominational origin of no weight in the 

. scale of her decisions. 

May 5. (Monday.) Photograph taken, that I 
might present to each subscriber to my mission a 
copy, as a token of grateful remembrance of their 
kindness, whenever called upon for aid. I fondly 
hope these tokens will keep their missionary in 
mind vears after his head shall have been laid low. 



64 



11. (Sunday.) Taken over to the Farm School 
in the Lyman boat. Never do I enjoy myself more 
than in visits to that, my favorite Institution, where 
one hundred boys are instructed. Its principal 
founders, John D. Williams and Theodore Lyman, 
gone years since to their long home, come up fresh 
to my memory on every visit, and excite within 
me fervent thanksgiving to Him who moved their 
kindred hearts to an enterprise over which the 
angels in heaven cannot but rejoice. Preached 
in the forenoon, from Job xiv. 5 and 7-10 ; in 
the afternoon, from Isaiah Iv. 6-11. 



1 'Tis greatly wise to talk of our past hours, 
And ask them what report they bore to heaven.'" 




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